Teething in Babies: Symptoms, Remedies & When to See a Dentist

atlanticdentalprac
Jun 19
2 min read

Teething is a major milestone in your baby’s development — and for many parents, it comes with plenty of questions (and sleepless nights). If you're wondering “When does teething start?” or “How can I soothe my teething baby?” — you’re not alone.

At Hampton Dental Care, we’re here to help you understand the signs of teething, effective teething remedies, and when to book your baby’s first dental appointment.

When Does Teething Start?

Most babies start teething around 6 months of age, but it can begin as early as 3 months or as late as 12 months. Every child is different, and the timing can vary.

The first teeth to come through are usually the bottom front teeth (lower central incisors), followed by the top front teeth.

Common Teething Symptoms

Teething can cause discomfort, but not all babies show the same symptoms. Here are some common signs your baby may be teething:

Red, swollen gums
Excessive drooling
Chewing on fingers or toys
Irritability or fussiness
Trouble sleeping
Mild fever (below 38°C)
Rubbing their cheeks or ears

Baby Teething Remedies: What Actually Works?

There are safe and gentle ways to ease teething pain at home. Here are our top dentist-approved teething remedies:

Cold Teething Toys: Chilled (not frozen) silicone teething rings help soothe sore gums.
Clean Fingers or Muslin Cloth: Gently rub your baby’s gums with a clean, cool finger or cloth.
Teething Gels: Sugar-free teething gels may offer temporary relief — always choose one suitable for babies and follow the instructions.

Avoid teething necklaces, frozen foods, and gels with benzocaine — these can pose serious risks.

When Should a Baby First See a Dentist?

We recommend taking your baby to the dentist as soon as their first tooth appears — and no later than their first birthday, or even sooner if you have any concerns.

Early checkups help:

Monitor teeth development
Offer tailored teething advice
Establish a positive dental routine from the start

At Hampton Dental Care, check-ups and general dentistry are free for under 18's, and you can book their first check-up with us online, so there’s no reason to wait.

How to Care for Baby Teeth

Once that first tooth pops through, it’s time to start brushing! Use:

A soft-bristled baby toothbrush
A smear of age-appropriate toothpaste (most supermarkets and chemists sell toothpaste with a designated age range printed on it)
Brush twice a day, especially before bed

Get expert advice

At Hampton Dental Care, we love helping families start healthy habits early. Whether you’re dealing with teething troubles or preparing for your baby’s first dental visit, our friendly team is here to support you every step of the way. We also offer FREE general dentistry for all under 18's.